Mascot guidelines

 

Event performance guidelines

The mascot costume is a popular representation of our trademark and brand, therefore it’s important to be aware of how the Nanook is perceived in public. UAF licensing agreements prohibit activities depicting the university as endorsing or promoting a business or product or as endorsing an issue or particular point of view. So the mascot should not be used to endorse products or businesses.

The mascot performer should receive an event briefing so they can be fully prepared.

Performers should have a space to change into and out of the mascot. A plan for breaks should be part of the event brief. The mascot suit can be very hot — wear light shorts and a tank top.

It’s important that Nanook always presents a fun, positive personality with lots of energy and campus spirit.

 

Here are some do’s and dont's.

 

The mascot may NOT:

• Talk or sing or make inappropriate noises while in character
• Hug or touch children or infants below the shoulder.
• Pick up or hold children or infants.
• Approach a child who appears scared or confused. Stay back and let the child approach them.
• Run or roughhouse while in costume or engage in horseplay.
• Engage in any violent activity or behavior that may be offensive or reflect negatively on sponsor(s) (i.e., play fighting).
• Consume alcoholic beverages, use tobacco products or patronize bars or any other location outside of UAF-approved events.
• Represent or promote brands that may be counter to UAF’s brand strategy or hire the mascot for private, non-affiliated events.
• Wear heavy cologne or heavily scented deodorant.

 

Chaperone — guidelines

A chaperone must be with Nanook in public. The chaperone who focuses on the mascot’s safety, can help with donning the costume, ensuring the performer takes breaks, watching out for steps or door jams and warning of unruly kids. Chaperones and performers should have a code so they’ll know when the performers need a break. The chaperone should only address the mascot as Nanook.

 

Care of the Nanook mascot

The mascot is usually laundered by staff in the Department of Athletics or at the SRC. Advance arrangements should be made for laundering between performances and dates for return. The mascot should not be left in hot or cold conditions, e.g., your car, and should not be stored tightly in a container.

The head should only be wiped out with disinfectants that are safe for human exposure.

Performers should remain hydrated but should not eat while in the costume.

 

Code of conduct agreement

1. I understand that it’s important to keep my performance in good taste and in keeping with the event. I have read and understand the do’s and don’ts for the mascot.
2. I will do my best to remain anonymous as Nanook and to avoid changing into the costume in public view.
3. I will not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke while dressed as the mascot or before any mascot appearances.
4. I understand the importance of conducting myself professionally during all events and when interacting with individuals. I will not become involved in or tolerate sexual harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or any protected status.
5. While in costume, I will follow the agreed-upon guidance of the event organizer.
6. I will arrive at the designated location 15 minutes prior to the agreed-upon start time or agreed-upon arrival time, per the event planner.